Additional Info

Nearby Theaters

The Brach Theatre opened in 1916 and was later renamed the Strand Theatre. The architect for the Brach/Strand was C.W. Way. Seating was listed at 700.
The theatre was operated by Central States Theatres when it closed on March 30, 1984. The building is now used for office space.

A book called Past and Present of Adams County, published in 1917, says: “The Brach Theater was erected by William Brach and is the first elaborate, exclusive moving picture theater to be erected in Hastings. The house was opened October 8, 1916. Charles A. Beghtol is the proprietor.”

The May 13, 1916, issue of Motography had an item about the proposed theater, though it got the name of the owner wrong:

“The office and theater building being erected in Hastings by William Branch [sic] has been leased by Charles A. Beghtol of Denver. The latter expects to take possession by September 1. The first floor will be used exclusively for a moving picture theater, which, Mr. Beghtol and the designers say, will have no superior in the west. The lobby will be especially elaborate, with tile floor and marble trimmings. The installation of an orchestra organ is contemplated.”